The Hindu : National : Developments disturbing: Fernandes

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Wednesday, Sep 15, 2004

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National

Developments disturbing: Fernandes

By Our Special Correspondent

BANGALORE, SEPT. 14. The convener of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), George Fernandes, said today that the NDA would fight against the "anti-national policies" recommended by a private multinational agency for implementation by the Planning Commission.

Participating in a "meet-the-press" organised by the Press Club of Bangalore, he alleged that McKinsey and Company, which was working with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, had recommended to the Planning Commission to implement a series of policies and programmes that would "work against the interests of the country."

"These are disturbing developments" and the NDA would take the lead in mobilising the people against such "anti-national" policies. "The Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Communist Party of India, which are part of the United Progressive Alliance, had stated that they would fight for the cause of the common man, but they are now keeping quiet," he said.

Major player

Mr. Fernandes said that India was fast emerging as a major player in defence production and exports, including arms and ammunition. On India's relations with Pakistan and China, he said they were good and the focus was on peace.

Elections

On the coming elections in Maharashtra, Mr. Fernandes said the Veer Savarkar issue had helped the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiv Sena. "I am confident that the BJP and the Shiv Sena will emerge victorious. Thanks to the issue, the road has been made clear and the people of Maharashtra have made up their mind."

In the coming panchayat elections in Karnataka, the BJP and the Janata Dal (United) would fight independently, he added.

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